RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - The year has finally arrived—2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and America250 is set to be the largest patriotic celebration in U.S. history. Led by the official U.S. Semi quincentennial Commission, the festivities will span the entire year, featuring reenactments at Revolutionary War battlefields, concerts, Smithsonian exhibitions, and even a national military parade in Washington, D.C. [Document | Word]
But the excitement isn’t just happening on the national stage. Tennessee, known as “The Volunteer State,” is playing a major role through its own TN250 Commission, which is coordinating statewide events and offering grants (up to $25,000) to help communities highlight their local heritage. The focus is on celebrating Tennessee’s contributions to American democracy, from the Revolutionary era to today. Granville, TN, for example, is hosting year-long patriotic programming, exhibits, and performances under the Tennessee-America250 banner. [Document | Word]
RUTHERFORD COUNTY's America250
July 3, 2026 – Smyrna
- Independence Day Celebration at Lee Victory Recreation Park
- Expect fireworks, food trucks, and plenty of patriotic music to kick off the festivities. [Document | Word]
July 4, 2026 – Murfreesboro & La Vergne
- Murfreesboro’s “Celebration Under the Stars” at Fountains at Gateway promises the county’s largest fireworks and music festival.
- La Vergne’s Independence Day Celebration at Veterans Memorial Park will feature a patriotic program honoring veterans. [Document | Word]
July 11, 2026 – Eagleville
- The First Friday Porch Music & Food Trucks event transforms a small-town gathering into part of the America250 festivities. [Document | Word]
Fall 2026 – Murfreesboro
- Oaklands Mansion Candlelight Tours offer a heritage-focused experience, tying local history to Tennessee’s America250 programming. [Document | Word]
Winter 2026 – Eagleville & Murfreesboro
- Lucky Ladd Farms Holiday Lights in Eagleville will be a seasonal festival included in the year-long America250 celebrations.
- Hop Springs Concerts in Murfreesboro will bring together local music and cultural gatherings to round out the year. [Document | Word]
From Murfreesboro’s dazzling fireworks to Eagleville’s porch music, each city in Rutherford County is contributing its unique traditions and community spirit to Tennessee’s voice in the national story. America250 is more than just a celebration—it’s a showcase of heritage, unity, and pride, right here at home. [Document | Word]
This New Year of 2026 ushers in a truly special time to be patriotic in Rutherford County and across the nation. As we celebrate America250—the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—there’s never been a better reason to fly the flag and join in the festivities. From fireworks and music festivals to heritage tours and holiday lights, our community is ready to showcase its spirit and pride all year long.
